Steve Smith has done it again! The Australian run machine has become the 15th batter in Test cricket history to reach 10,000 runs. And he didn’t just get there—he did it in style, becoming the second-fastest Australian to achieve this milestone.
With just one run needed before the first Test against Sri Lanka, Smith wasted no time. In the 31st over, he flicked a delivery from Prabath Jayasuriya to the leg side, jogged across for a single, and raised his bat to applause from fans, teammates, and even the opposition. It was a simple moment, but one that marked another massive achievement in his legendary career.
Fastest to 10,000: How Does Smith Compare?
Smith reached this milestone in his 205th innings, edging past Indian great Rahul Dravid, who took 206. However, he still sits behind some all-time legends. Three batters—Brian Lara, Sachin Tendulkar, and Kumar Sangakkara—share the record for the fastest to 10,000 Test runs, each getting there in just 195 innings.
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Here’s how the list looks:
Fastest to 10,000 Test Runs (by innings):
- 195 – Brian Lara (West Indies)
- 195 – Sachin Tendulkar (India)
- 195 – Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka)
- 196 – Ricky Ponting (Australia)
- 205 – Steve Smith (Australia)
- 206 – Rahul Dravid (India)
Smith Joins Elite Australian Club
With this milestone, Smith becomes just the fourth Australian to cross the 10,000-run mark, joining the legendary trio of Allan Border, Steve Waugh, and Ricky Ponting. Among these, Ponting was the fastest (196 innings), while Waugh took the longest (244 innings).
Smith’s Test career has been nothing short of extraordinary. From starting as a leg-spinner who batted down the order to transforming into one of the most prolific batters of his generation, his rise has been remarkable.
This achievement further solidifies his place among cricket’s modern greats. His consistency, technique, and hunger for runs have made him a nightmare for bowlers worldwide. And at 35, he’s still got a lot of cricket left in him.
Smith’s Reaction & Team Changes
Before the game, Smith had mentioned at the toss that he hoped to “tick off” the 10,000-run milestone. He also handed a debut cap to Josh Inglis and promoted Travis Head to open, dropping young Sam Konstas.
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Reflecting on the pitch, Smith admitted he was unsure how it would play but emphasized the importance of adapting. “We have to adapt accordingly and see what’s in front of us. Sri Lanka are a very good team,” he said.
What’s Next for Smith?
With this milestone in the bag, the big question is: How far can he go? Given his hunger for runs, there’s every chance he’ll climb even higher in the record books. Could he challenge Ponting’s Australian record of 13,378 Test runs? Only time will tell.
For now, though, cricket fans can sit back and appreciate another chapter in the incredible career of Steve Smith. Here’s to many more runs from one of the best in the business!
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